Foster Families Open Hearts, Homes

Nearly 650 foster families in Nova Scotia open their hearts and homes to children in need of a loving, stable home.

Foster Family Appreciation Week runs to Sunday, Oct. 26, and provides an opportunity to thank foster parents for providing safe, loving homes for young Nova Scotians.

“Every young person deserves stability and support in a welcoming home where they can achieve their potential,” said Joanne Bernard, Minister of Community Services. “That’s why we are interested in recruiting and supporting foster parents from a wide variety of backgrounds.”

The number of foster parents in the province has declined by 24 per cent since 2008, while the need for homes for children in care remains steady. This trend is not unique to Nova Scotia, it is an ongoing concern throughout North America.

“You’ve just got to love kids, that’s all,” said Joanne Mutton, who has been a foster parent for 10 years in Yarmouth. “The benefits far outweigh anything else that might happen along the way.”

The influence of a foster parent can last for a lifetime. Foster parents can be married or common-law, in a same-sex partnership or single. They may work full-time or part-time, outside or at home.

Nova Scotians are encouraged to join the team working to help children safely reunite with a parent, live with extended family or transition to an adoptive family. Those interested in becoming foster parents can call 1-800-565-1884 or visit http://gov.ns.ca/fostercare .